Shooting Portraits on Vacation

When traveling, many photographers focus on landmarks and natural sites, things they can’t see at home. However, they may be missing a chance to create some truly unique photos -- and relationships -- by shooting photos of local residents. Use these tips to find ways to shoot interesting photos of local residents while you’re on vacation.

• You’ll find more willing photography subjects among local residents if you promise to give them a copy of your picture. With digital photography, it’s easy to e-mail the images, or you can find a local store to make quick prints. You also have an option of carrying a portable inkjet printer with you to remote locations.

• Another option for connecting with local residents is through a volunteer opportunity. Shooting photos of people volunteering, while you’re working alongside them, can create some great relationships and some interesting photographs.

• If you’re looking to “break the ice” with a local resident, talking to them about photographs and about advice for their favorite local sites for shooting photos is a good starting point. Photographers love to discuss their favorite ideas for shooting cool photos.

• Try to find the “sweet spot” between a staged photograph and a natural photograph. Admittedly, this can be difficult, as it’s tough to encourage subjects who know they’re being photographed to act natural. Try shooting photos over a period of several minutes, if you can, as the subjects should be more relaxed after a few minutes, allowing for more candid shots.

• Make sure you’ve tested all of your equipment before you begin attempting to shoot photos of local residents. A camera that won’t work or a dead battery after you line up everyone for a photo will put a damper on any relationship you’re building with a local resident.

• Finally, before you begin snapping random photos of local residents while you’re traveling, be sure to obtain permission. If you’re traveling to a foreign country, be sure you know the local rules and laws regarding photography and how you may use the photos. However, because one of the best reasons to photograph local residents is to strike up conversations and build interesting relationships, talking to those whom you’re photographing is part of the enjoyment of shooting the photos, so obtaining permission shouldn’t be too difficult.